Health Impact of Pre-and Post-natal Irradiation: State of the art

Paul Jacquet, Hanane Derradji, Sarah Baatout, Rafi Benotmane, Elisabeth Cardis, Marten Palme, Wladimir Wertelecki, Geraldine Thomas, Simon Bouffler, Hubert Thierens

    Research outputpeer-review

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    Abstract

    The first objective of this symposium was to assess up-to-date scientific data in the field of radiation-induced risks from an exposure of embryos to ionizing radiation. The potential risks associated with an acute embryonic exposure include prenatal mortality, growth retardation and congenital anomalies, mental retardation, leukemia and cancer. Recent data from radiobiological research showed that the genetic characteristics of the exposed embryos may modulate their radiation sensitivity. On the other hand, new data from epidemiological studies are raising concern. Those include possible increases in particular congenital anomalies or cognitive effects after exposure of germ cells or embryos to chronic low dose irradiation. Early infancy is also a period of peculiar radiation sensitivity, as illustrated by the increase in the incidence of thyroid cancer observed among people exposed as children to high levels of radioactive iodine after the Chernobyl accident. Leading specialists were asked to deliver lectures in the different fields covered by the symposium. The second objective of the symposium was to discuss the current data and its potential implications, as well as the needs for future research. This part of the symposium included a round table discussion between various stakeholders, some of them worked outside the radiation protection community.
    Original languageEnglish
    PublisherSCK CEN
    Number of pages23
    Volume23
    Edition0
    StatePublished - 7 Oct 2011

    Publication series

    NameSCK•CEN Reports
    PublisherStudiecentrum voor Kernenergie
    No.BA-41

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